How to Know What Hdmi Cable You Have
Tobias is an online writer who likes to continue upwards-to-date with the latest technology trends.
Discover out if you demand a new HDMI cable to enjoy your new television.
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The terms "4K" and "Ultra High Definition" have become increasingly popular in the past few years. There are now many industries that are mad almost the new 4K hype. To get the best out of your new Idiot box sets and computer monitors, new HDMI cables are beingness offered to provide 4K resolution. Just exercise you lot really need them?
Do I Need a New Cable for 4K?
The short reply to this question is probably not. Unless you are using hardware from over a decade ago, it is unlikely that you need to purchase a fancy new cable to enjoy 4K television. Don't be fooled into buying expensive HDMI 2.0 cables or "4K HDMI cables". There is no such thing and in that location never will be! Still, if you are dealing with HDMI 2.1, then some new cables may be a necessity. I'll explicate that further beneath. Read on to find out all about 4K resolution and why your current cables will probably get the job done.
What Is 4K?
4K simply refers to the brandish resolution that is common on modernistic goggle box sets. The specific resolution is 3,840 horizontal pixels and two,160 vertical pixels; the 4K refers to the nearly 4 thousand horizontal pixels. This is an increment from the previous standard of 1080p, which had a resolution of 1920 10 1080.
You often meet abbreviations similar 4K, 4K2K, Ultra Loftier Definition, Ultra Hd, UHD, Quad Full HD, QFD and 2160p. You should know that all of these terms mean the aforementioned thing. They all refer to 4K picture quality, which transfers a large amount of data. This requires appropriate hardware.
Not just must the Television back up this ultra high resolution (which is unremarkably done through sheer size), but other components such as graphic cards and software (drivers) must handle these huge amounts of data. 4K-ready HDMI cables are primal every bit the serial interface between the 4K signal source and the loftier-terminate goggle box.
What Kind of HDMI Cables Are In that location?
Here are the chief types of HDMI cables on the market. Cables are differentiated past their speed and maximum bandwidth. Note that newer cables are compatible with older versions of HDMI on various devices.
- Standard: This offers a maximum bandwidth of x.2 Gbps and supports up to 1080p Hard disk resolution. This type of cable is fairly obsolete and does not offer 4K output.
- High Speed: This offers a maximum bandwidth of 18 Gbps and supports 4K UHD resolution upwards to 60Hz.
- Ultra Loftier Speed: This is the latest cable that offers a maximum bandwidth of 48 Gbps. This cable can back up 8K UHD resolutions at up to 60hz. While 8K TVs are not common, these cables do offer the best refresh rates for 4K resolution.
Y'all should read this article to make certain you don't misfile HDMI cables with other types of cables.
What Are the Different Versions of HDMI?
In that location are dissimilar types of HDMI that a TV can have. Newer models will take newer versions. A cable or device that uses an older version could work with a newer Goggle box. Even so, information technology won't utilize the TV to its full potential. Here is a brief await at the different versions of HDMI.
- HDMI 1.iv: This supports 4K resolution up to 30Hz.
- HDMI 2.0: This supports 4K resolution up to 60Hz. Later updates added back up for HDR video
- HDMI 2.i: This is the latest version. It supports 8K at 60Hz and 4K at 120Hz.
Does Every HDMI Cable Back up 4K Ultra HD?
Nearly all HDMI cables manufactured today should at to the lowest degree support HMDI 1.four. This is the oldest version that supports 4K resolution. Most cables and Goggle box models from recent years back up HDMI 2.0. However, when it comes to cables, the important detail to accept notation of is the speed rating.
After the version numbering for HDMI cables was dismissed a few years ago, HDMI cables nowadays are classified as either Standard, Loftier Speed or Ultra Loftier Speed. These types differ in their maximum transfer rate, i.e., bandwidth.
- Standard HDMI cable: 4.95 Gbps
- High Speed HDMI cable: ten.ii Gbps
- Ultra High Speed HDMI cablevision: 48 Gbps
As y'all can run into, faster cables provide higher performance. Most of the cables you can buy in stores today are High Speed. If yous happen to observe an quondam cable that has been lying effectually for a few years, there is a good possibility that it is a Standard cable. This will not back up 4K.
Some cables may be labelled equally High Speed. These volition support 4K.
How Do I Recognize a High-Speed HDMI Cable?
If yous desire to make sure that your HDMI cable supports Ultra HD 4K resolution, you have to await for the HDMI High Speed logo on the cablevision's packaging.
This is what a typical Loftier Speed label looks like.
Some cables may take the Loftier Speed label on them. Nevertheless, this is not very common. If yous want to be 100% certain that you have the right cablevision, you might want to buy a new 1.
Since nearly all HDMI cables provide the same display quality, y'all don't want to worry too much about choosing a new cable. As long every bit information technology carries the High Speed logo and has a fair price, everything is fine!
From left to correct, nosotros HDMI connector types D, C and A.
NicoJenner, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Eatables
HDMI Connector Types
In addition to different speeds, HDMI cables can have different connector types. Y'all accept to make certain the cable you get will really plug into your device. Here are the different types out there.
- Type A: This is the standard connector that you will apply the near. You volition demand this kind if you want to connect your Blu-ray player or game console to your TV.
- Type B: This is a type you volition most likely never use. It is a dual-link connector that was intended to be faster than of a single-link connector. HDMI 1.3 increased the speed of a single-link connector, making this type lose its unique office.
- Type C: This is a mini connector that is often used on DSLR cameras and tablets.
- Type D: This is a micro connector that is frequently used with devices like smartphones.
- Type E: These are specifically designed for automotive HDMI cables. These take a shell to prevent dirt and moisture from interfering with the signal. They as well have a locking machinery to prevent the cable from becoming loose in a car.
Keep in mind that if y'all don't accept the right connector, y'all may be able to use an adaptor. This commodity on connecting a Macbook to a Idiot box highlights this.
What Well-nigh HDMI 2.1?
HDMI 2.i was released in 2017. It offers 8K resolution and higher refresh rates. This version will require a new cable if you plan to utilize HDMI 2.1 to its full potential. You lot will need an Ultra High Speed cable.
For the time existence, 8K content is well-nigh non-existent. Only a few TV models offering support, but this will certainly alter in the next few years.
This article is accurate and truthful to the all-time of the author's knowledge. Content is for advisory or entertainment purposes only and does non substitute for personal counsel or professional advice in business organization, financial, legal, or technical matters.
Questions & Answers
Question: What about length considerations? I sure don't think every high-speed HDMI cable will perform well with increase in length, say over 30ft. Surely you do need special 4k branded cables to forbid signal loss in such instances. Right?
Answer: For HDMI 2.0 cables the length should not exceed 30ft. While longer cables could eventually work as well, they are not officially supported by the HDMI standard. The brand does not make a difference; both branded and unbranded cables volition struggle here.
Question: Tin HDMI 2 back up calculation Atmos to 4k?
Answer: Hard disk Sound is also supported past HDMI 2.0
Question: What nigh the refresh charge per unit of a monitor? That should be taken into account if you are into games.
Reply: If your equipments supports loftier refresh rates (60Hz) @ 4K, you should make sure that the HDMI cable supports these refresh rates likewise for 4K resolutions.
Question: Is in that location any such matter as a proprietory HDMI cablevision?
Reply: No there aren't any proprietary HDMI cables. But mind different versions such equally Highspeed and Premium HDMI Cables. Non every cable supports all features that HDMI is capable of.
Question: Well, these days everyone should be equipped with proper HDMI 2.0 cable to back up 4k@60?
Answer: If you are ownership a new cable and don't care too much about the price - probably yes. Withal, if you just want a inexpensive solution for your existing equipment, think twice.
Question: Is HDMI 2.0b even a existent cable? Is HDMI high speed over Ethernet called by Verizon the "2.0b"?
Answer: The addition „b" is relevant when using content with HDR (loftier dynamic range) color spectrum. Otherwise, there'southward not much departure to HDMI 2.0/a
Question: What is a skillful HDMI cable tester?
Answer: Your eyes and ears! Honestly, you don't need special equipment to cheque the quality of your HDMI cable. If your signal is flawed you will detect and then past screen artifacts, brandish lags or audio jumps.
Question: Practice you need a sky HDMI cable to work a 4K television with the skybox?
Answer: No, any HDMI cablevision volition exercise.
Shiva on July 21, 2020:
What do you hateful by an active HDMI cable and Passive HDMI cable?
Tobias (author) from Germany on July 06, 2020:
@Adeymcg The 1.3b Splitter isn't enough for HDMI 4K. Replace with a splitter that supports HDMI 2.0 at least.
Adeymcg on July 06, 2020:
Howdy, promise someone can help, recently bought a hdmi 3 way port splitter for my 4k Telly and DVD player plus 4k cable TV. Now the picture is grainey 4k the seller says it'southward not the splitter but what I can find the splitter supports HD i.3b, supports 1080p, supports 250MHz/2.5Gbps what is 1.3b? Never heard of it is it that former? Seriously are these specs enough to back up 4K???
joseph C on Oct 10, 2018:
Practise y'all know whatever specific articles to look out for in particular who are trying to sell the HDMI 2.0 Cables/4k HDMI cables that practice non really support 4k?
Too I am a little confused, are y'all saying that manufacturers of these cords are actually saying they are hdmi 4k cords and they exercise non back up information technology - or are you lot saying that you can get the same kind of cord for way cheaper and the manufacturers are trying to pull a fast one past jacking upwardly the cost of the 4k cables?
Tobias (author) from Germany on July 22, 2018:
KM, thank you for your comment. To which inaccuracy are you referring concretely?
Will Hansen on Apr 11, 2018:
Stay with peak end on the new HDR tv's. Fusion4k is a condom bet and decent toll for what you get.
Tobias (author) from Germany on February 21, 2018:
Richard, the 17.8 Gbit is a good indicator. To be completely sure, however, yous'll need to exam information technology. Alternatively you could look for cables that explicitly support HDMI 2.0(a/b).
Richard Howard on February 18, 2018:
The following is from a supplier and merely mentions 1.three and 1.four compatible in the description. Will it exist ii.0 compatible so I can get 60fps? I need for 4K content on my ps4 pro. Is the fundamental the 17.eight gigabit and therefore everything else should be ok?
Platonic For Gaming, Hd and 3D Viewing
Total HD 1080p, 1440p, 2160p Compatible
Lab tested to 17.eight Gigabit
3D Prepare
Tobias (author) from Germany on January 14, 2018:
James, your existing HDMI Loftier Speed Cables should work. Still, if you want to be sure, y'all can buy one of the $vi HDMI High Speed Cables linked in the commodity above. They will work with 60Hz@4K because they completely support the HDMI 2.0 Specifications.
James on Jan 13, 2018:
Hey Tobias, could you explain what you mean past the 'HDMI connector itself'? I am about to buy the 4k histrion, and considering upgrading cables equally want to reach 60fps. My cable is high speed with ethernet - how can i know if i need a new one or not?
Give thanks mate.
Tobias (author) from Germany on December 14, 2017:
Techie - that is true, merely only for the HDMI connector itself. Talking about cables y'all can employ the ordinary HDMI Highspeed Cables for HDMI 2.0 and sixty fps without any problem most of the times.
Techie on Dec 08, 2017:
This is a dangerous article as it doesn't mention that 8Gbps hdmi will limy you to thirty FPS. HDMI 2.0 transfers at 18 Gbps that allows lx FPS.
bo huggabee on May 19, 2017:
i bought a 10$ 2.0 hdmi from walmart. i had a high speed sony cable before it nearly 5 years one-time now. the shorter cheaper cable has superior bandwidth, and if you know what that does for gaming with a 4k boob tube, so you demand it. i noticed information technology instantly. the picture quality wasn't changed very much except for the benefits of the 80 dollar cables colour technology. sharper smoother shading. the 2 cables have dissimilar tones though. very subtle merely perhaps an artist will notice. the 2.0 cable allows y'all to use your proper refresh rate with you tv, is the point. instantly i noticed a massive alter in quality all around. my sony cablevision notwithstanding sells today for 77$ on amazon. i bought the ten$ ge cable from walmart. thats the advancement in tech. while the pic quality holds up over fourth dimension. the overall benefits of bandwidth greatly outweigh a choked indicate. you get to see the beauty more than often. and if your telly has a good refresh charge per unit, y'all'll exist seeing a consequent sixty fps compared to the inconsistent and subtle drops i had earlier. i am looking for a cable that combines the benefits of both.
Timmy cross on Apr 15, 2017:
if hook a top of the line high speed hdmi upward to a regular 1080 TV volition make it improve or do zip at all
Asrar Hassan on January 17, 2017:
All I know is I'm using a cheapo $4 HDMI cablevision and getting 4K 60hz ;)
Tobias (author) from Germany on January 10, 2017:
Hullo Jeffrey, the cable linked in the article to a higher place is completely fine for "high speed" applications. No worries :-)
Jeffrey Shelley on Jan 09, 2017:
I noticed the cables you accept the link for on Amazon don't accept the "high speed" logo on them. Is this what I need for my 4k Tv? Thank you.
hi on December 21, 2016:
HDMI Versions vs. HDMI Cablevision 4K
Full 4K back up was introduced with HDMI version one.4. However, you tin only be sure with cables certified every bit "High Speed" to back up the high bandwidth requirements of HDMI 2.0. Cables classified Version 1.three mostly don't piece of work for HDMI 4K functionality. The post-obit list will requite you a rough orientation.
•HDMI cable 1.0 – one.2 – no 4K Ultra HD support
•HDMI cable ane.3: Probably no 4K back up depending on the cablevision
•HDMI cable i.iv: 4K support very likely, but not guaranteed
•HDMI High Speed Cable: 4K Ultra Hd back up guaranteed
?????????????
SandyJ-60601 on November 24, 2016:
Marcy, the content displayed may as well make a deviation. Is your source really 4k resolution or is it 1080p (or lower) being displayed at 4k resolution? You may be getting a pixelization consequence. They are probably displaying 4k or 1080p content that was specifically made to show off groovy resolution or great cinematic effects. If you are trying to compare that to the quality of reruns of Family unit Feud or MacGyver (circa 1980's) then their's just no comparison.
Dave on November 19, 2016:
Marcy-
Their Tv set is calibrated, yours is not. If this "electronics shop" was All-time Purchase, they accept their signals coming in through a source with much better quality than you do. They too take their lighting ready with TV picture quality in mind. You can pay to have your Television Calibrated to expect as good as it can, but for the about office, information technology will ever expect amend in the store.
robert on September 28, 2016:
you should get back to the store and buy the new hdmi high speed iv.nine cablevision..youll encounter
Marcy G on September 24, 2016:
I bought a vizio M SERIES 4k 55 inch boob tube and it'south cracking merely when I go into a electronics store and see a D serial vizio with ameliorate resolution than mine??? I enquire how is that more articulate than my new 4k boob tube ?? He said did u hook upward a HDMI high speed 4k cord and I said no and he showed me several it was 29.00 at target I brought it home and there's no difference what am I doing wrong?? Can someone,tell me wazzz upwardly please.
Thanks
Marcy
Dane on July eleven, 2016:
mmmmh...I encounter Amazon basic selling HDMI Loftier Speed Cable as 1.four. I think people should also wait for HDMI High Speed Cablevision and 2.0 together. Some companies will put HDMI High Speed Cable and actually mean HDMI 1.iv
Source: https://turbofuture.com/computers/do-i-need-hdmi-cable-4k-hdmi-20-guide